Solid waste (sludge) removed during the wastewater treatment process is recycled to produce an organic-based fertiliser and soil conditioner for use in agriculture.

As a result the sludge goes through a quality controlled series of treatment processes to ensure it is completely safe for recycling to land.

View the sludge treatment process.

Southern Water has a number of regional recycling centres in Sussex, Kent, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight which treat sludge and produce two products - digested cake and dried granules.

These are marketed under the brand Bestway Products.

Methane gas is produced during the treatment process which is recycled to generate power to help run the works.